BCC Statement from Nora Senior, President of the British Chambers of Commerce

The director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, John Longworth, resigned on the 6 March 2016 after being suspended for saying the United Kingdom's long-term prospects could be 'brighter' outside the European Union.

In a Statement from BCC President Nora Senior it was said 'The British Chambers of Commerce is a non-partisan organisation, and as such, decided not to campaign for either side ahead of the European referendum on 23 June 2016. Its neutrality in the referendum debate reflects the real divisions that exist in business communities across the UK'.

Brexit 'Leave' supporters London mayor Boris Johnson and former UK Defence Secretary Liam Fox, had earlier supported Mr Longworth for his comments.

Mr Johnson called Mr Longworth's treatment 'scandalous', while Mr Fox said ministers should clarify 'if they were involved in any way in putting pressure on' the BCC to suspend Mr Longworth.

• Primary Source

BBC News, 07.03.16: BCC boss resigns over 'Brexit' support http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-35741715

The Guardian, 07.03.16: John Longworth resigns as commerce boss over Brexit debate http://www.theguardian.com/business/2016/mar/06/john-longworth-resigns-as-commerce-boss-over-brexit

ESO: Background information: BCC: Cameron’s EU reform package key to business vote http://www.europeansources.info/record/bcc-camerons-eu-reform-package-key-to-business-vote/

---